Epigenetics and mental and physical health of children born after ART

Epigenetic regulation of molecular reproduction in human and animal models has a profound impact on phenotypic heterogeneity, response to extrinsic factors, and overall health and disease. Epigenetic processes influence all stages of the life cycle, from gametogenesis through organismal aging and utilize multiple mechanisms of epigenetic inheritance.

In this chapter, we discuss the major principles and processes of molecular epigenetics. These epigenetic changes may last through cell divisions for the duration of a cell's life and may last for multiple generations without involving changes in underlying DNA sequence. DNA methylation and histone modification will be discussed presenting the mechanisms of covalent modification, RNA transcripts, and micro RNAs.

Epigenetic regulation of embryonic development and epigenetic reprogramming will be analyzed in detail with reference to sporadic or transgenerational inheritance. We will also discuss environmental and maternal factors during pregnancy that influence developmental origins of health and disease (DOHaD) of humans. These factors can affect development of next generation even before conception and can continue throughout pregnancy, early childhood, or into adult life.

Epigenetic changes in children born after ART are discussed with data concerning epigenetic syndromes and epigenetic conditions that are resolved by adulthood.

Finally, psychological conditions during pregnancy can influence adverse birth outcomes, long-term defects of cognitive development, behavioral problems during childhood, and constant high baseline levels of stress-related hormones.